Calling it "entirely smart and compassionate", the Southwest Times-Record throws its support behind a proposal to extend additional tax relief to Arkansans who were affected by this spring's violent storms.

I am an original cosponsor of the bill, Southeastern Disaster Tax Relief Act of 2011, which extends approximately twenty tax credits and incentives to those affected by recent tornadoes, severe storms and/or flooding that swept through Arkansas and neighboring southeastern states in April and May. 

The Fort Smith-based paper notes that residents in 30 Arkansas counties are eligible for individual assistance and 51 counties are eligible for public assistance.  They could receive additional benefits if this bill becomes law.